The Uniden 520 is a great choice for a basic radio. I've been using one for years with excellent results. It's really hard to beat for the size/money.
Consider the K30 magnet mount antenna for an alternative in that size.
I've used both it and the Little Wil and found the K30 to perform noticeably better. It's also less expensive:
The other commenter that suggested getting an SWR meter is also correct. These antennas all require some degree of adjustment for optimal performance. Just a basic meter will work fine.
And the jumper: http://www.amazon.com/Procomm-Coaxial-Cable-Jumper-Connectors/dp/B003DRJ738/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_text_y
The meter and jumper is something you'll very rarely need (just when moving the setup to a different vehicle, for the most part) so if you husband has a friend into CB or HAM operation, he may be able to borrow one for a few minutes rather than buying.
Finally, you'll need some way to power the radio. The easiest way is with a lighter plug: http://www.amazon.com/Roadpro-Fused-Replacement-Cigarette-Lighter/dp/B0016LG0CY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417901045&sr=8-1&keywords=lighter+plug
Just cut the connectors off the ends of the wires and splice it with the ones on the radio.
Alternatively, you can connect to the fuse box with an Add-A-Circuit. These come in different sizes depending on the fuses in your car. You can get one of these for less than $10 at any auto parts store.
Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. I have one more. Will the Nagoya CB72 28 inch antenna work with the Uniden Bearcat 980SSB? Only asking because I already ordered that antenna.
Now, to find an inexpensive power supply that won’t look like I’m setting up an electrical engineering workbench.
Update - I ordered:
I couldn’t justify spending $150 on a Wilson 1000. Thanks for your help.
Uniden makes a great little radio. Also, here's an antenna...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000H2W270/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_0M9.EbP6MEBAJ
I'm with others in saying that a small, dedicated unit will be "better", but I personally own the Uniden. With a magmount and a 12V cigarette plug, it works great! The only downside is that when you turn the unit off, it reverts to Ch9. I listen to 19, so every time I turn it on, I have to click up 10 channels. Big deal...
Aside from that small gripe, the Uniden has been an excellent little radio. I didn't NEED a handheld when I made my purchase, but it is nice knowing I could go truly mobile with the rubber duck and batteries if I had to. Remember you will need an adapter to go from the small connection at the radio, to the larger fitting on the magmount antenna. Here is the one I purchased.
FireStik AR-3 Coax Adapter, UHF PL-259 to BNC https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JYHRFUI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_K6jbBbD3WKXKM
On a side note, I did install a small 35W linear amplifier to help "get out" a bit better. I always get excellent copies when I use it, and would recommend it in tandem with the handheld, as I was only getting 2.2W output on my meter when speaking into the radio (swinging). Using it car to car under 1/2 mile should be no issue running the radio barefoot, but it is something to consider.
Hope this information helps!
-Uniden PRO401HH
Uniden PRO401HH 40 Channel Handheld CB Radio https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N43KM5S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_W3jbBb741Z69J
-K40 K-30 MagMount Antenna
K40 K-30 35" 300 Watts Stainless Steel Magnet Mount CB Antenna https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000H2W270/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_U2jbBbVEFPAF4
-RM Italy KL-35 Linear Amplifier